This page includes Frequently Asked Questions. If you’re ready to book your reading, please go to the Card Readings page.
What is a tarot card reading?
The practice of reading tarot or oracle cards, or cartomancy, is conventionally understood as a form of divination—that is, of seeking information about future events (i.e., fortune telling). However, since I started reading tarot cards 17 years ago, I have rarely found myself predicting the future or “telling fortunes.”
In terms of the actual process, the reader pulls several cards, which each have various layers of symbolic meaning; the placement and ordering of each card also adds another layer of meaning. Taken together, the card reader weaves an intuitive story about the cards and their implications for the questioner.
In my readings, I also include any intuitive insights or impulses that emerge or strike me as the reading unfolds. These intuitions may relate to the cards themselves, but they may also arise from inner visions and sounds, emotions, somatic responses, and more.
Who usually asks for a reading?
Anyone!
People ask for a reading for one of two reasons: a) they’ve had one before; or b) the idea of a reading excites or intrigues them.
Often, they want to see an alternate perspective of their situation, and the cards (and their interpretations) provide a mirror in which to see their (inner and outer) life circumstances rendered in a new way.
Every reading is different. Sometimes readings are emotional, psychological, or even mystical; sometimes they are almost shockingly practical. But regardless of their content, a reading often leaves people with feelings of clarity, reassurance, and inspiration.
What types of readings do you offer?
Previously, I offered specific types of card readings, but I noticed that everyone was requesting the same option: the “Intuitive Leap,” where I simply follow the intuitive energy that is coming through.
The result is always completely unexpected, but in general, they involve 8-10 cards (sometimes more) and last around 30 minutes.
If you are ready to book a reading, please head to the Card Readings page.
How do you approach a reading?
In general, every reading I do focuses on the ongoing developmental trajectory of “the self” in its widest sense. This can and often does include mention of the past and future, as well as the world at large, but the emphasis is always on you. Your life, your psyche, your struggles, your soul, your growth.
In terms of my interpretation of the cards and their placements, intuition is primary. I privilege gut feelings about a given card over conventional interpretations (although commonly held ideas about the cards are helpful, too.)
Additionally, I draw upon my years of training in clinical psychology and depth psychology (e.g., Jungian psychology, psychoanalysis) as well as my lifelong study of mythology and my life as an artist, writer, and musician.
Every reading is different, but in general, I often emphasize personal accountability and authenticity as well as the importance of balance and common sense.
How much does a tarot reading cost?
Currently, all readings cost $50.00 USD.
The length of the readings can vary, but they’re usually 30 minutes long (sometimes more).
Please see Card Readings for payment processing and details.
I booked my reading! What can I expect?
In practical terms, once payment is received and your Tarot Reading Form is submitted, I will record your reading as soon as I can, typically within 1-3 days.
Your reading will be delivered to you as a video file featuring my desk, the cards, and my hands. The finished video includes a 30-minute reading (sometimes more, if necessary) in which I add captions for clarity. I do very minimal editing to maintain the pacing and progression of the reading, but sometimes I edit out excessive pauses, noises, etc.
After the reading is finished, I will email you a Dropbox link to your video, which you will have access to for one year. You can download the reading, but you may also stream it from the link, as sometimes the file sizes can be rather large. I can also send you an audio-only copy of your reading (upon request).
If you have any issues accessing your video, just let me know!
What if I don’t understand my reading?
In all my years of providing readings, this has never really happened, in terms of an entire reading. However, there may often be a card or two that doesn’t quite make sense to you. It could be my own error (I’m only human!), but typically this is due to timing and subjectivity.
In other words, come back to the reading later, and see if it makes more sense then. We change over time, as do our interpretations and understandings, so you may find yourself having an “A-ha!” moment about your reading after some time as passed.
Do you offer refunds?
No.
When I sit down to do a reading, I have no idea what is going to happen, and in the same vein, I have no idea how you will respond to it. All I can do is my best, and once the reading is finished, I can’t redo it or change it. It’s done.
If you are upset by your reading for any reason, I suggest that you take some time to reflect on your own responses. If necessary, seek out support from a trusted friend or a mental health professional who is licensed in your state.
I loved my reading! When may I request another?
You are free to request readings as often as you’d like, however, seeking readings too often can foster a sense of dependency on them, which is counterproductive to personal growth.
Some people seek out readings 1-2 times per year, while others request them as needed. It varies from person to person. Do what feels best for you.
Daniel Siuba 